About Life Rock

[rburn99]

Are there benefits to one type of live rock (fiji for example) over another? What visible differences are there? Different critters maybe? Or do you base it on the types of corals you plan to have?

Also, could I get some links to online stores people have had good experiences with? Or ones to avoid?

Thanks!
Robb

 

[ChrisRD]

Live rock varies a lot from batch to batch, but in general Pacific types like Fiji, Marshall, etc. are more porous and lighter than the stuff from the Gulf of Mexico. The lighter porous rock is thought by some to be better for filtration.

On the other hand, the stuff from the Gulf of Mexico doesn't have to endure the same type of time/rigors in transit so you'll probably get more life on it.

I think Premium Aquatics has good Pacific rock and by reputation Tampa Bay and Gulf View have good Gulf of Mexico stuff.

HTH

 

[ChrisRD]

BTW, here are the links:

http://www.tampabaysaltwater.com/

http://www.gulf-view.com/

http://premiumaquatics.com/

Check out sponsors page for other vendors.

 

[Anonymous]

The Gulf of Mexico stuff is full of life, and unfortunately sometimes that life includes unwanted hitchikers.

Imo, you are much more likely to get a mantis in Gulf of Mexico rock than in Pacific rock.

 

[rburn99]

Thank you for the info and links.

Can you lure out hitchikers during the curing process? Or will they just remain tucked in the cracks for 4-8 week cycling period waiting for better pickings?

 

[Anonymous]

No...they'll be looking for food. A few traps ought to do wonders over a one or two month period.